The CO Research Trust is delighted to announce the first Christopher Bielby CO Research Award 2023 winner.
The judges decided that Joshua Durans from Sheffield Hallam University was a clear winner. Joshua’s poster submission was titled “Impact of chronic low-level carbon monoxide exposure on the cardiovascular development in the embryonic avian model”.
Before accepting his award, Joshua presented his PhD project to the delegates at the CO Research Trust Conference, at Sheffield Hallam University on 14th June.
Chair of the CO Research Trust Board Baroness Finlay said:
”Chris Bielby was a great supporter of people. Throughout his long career, Chris developed, encouraged, and supported people at the early stages of their careers, with carbon monoxide safety at the heart of his work. It is fitting that we honour his memory by recognising new talent, who are focused on developing an understanding of the effects of CO - Joshua is a worthy winner.”
We were delighted that IGEM agreed to Co-sponsor the award, in honour of Chris.
Head of Technical and Policy at IGEM Ian McCluskey said:
“Chris was a much-loved IGEM family member and dear friend who was committed to the industry and spent 50 years tirelessly lobbying and canvassing support for gas safety issues, particularly around carbon monoxide. We had the honour of awarding Chris with the title of Fellow of the Institution of Gas Engineers & Managers (FIGEM) and of him being our President in 2005-6. Chris impacted so many lives and we miss his dedication and commitment to driving CO safety. With this award, we are continuing his great legacy.”
The CO Research Trust launched the Chris Bielby CO Research Award to honour Chris's passion and commitment to safety and developing people.
The poster competition was specifically aimed at researchers and academics beginning their research careers, focusing on carbon monoxide research.
Chris was a Trustee of the CO Research Trust and was the Chair for more than ten years, remaining an active contributor despite his illness, generously sharing his insights and knowledge. Chris sadly passed away in July 2022.
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About the CO Research Trust
The CO Research Trust is a registered charity which was established in 2005. The vision of the charity is a world where people are not exposed to carbon monoxide (CO).
For more information please contact;
Natalie Fleck
CO Research Trust